All Blacks Defeat South Africa in First Match of Series

The All Blacks began their South African tour with a significant victory, defeating their hosts 33-16 in the first test match, which will be followed by three more encounters. The Springboks faced their long-time rivals at Ellis Park Stadium in Johannesburg on Saturday without their iconic captain, Siya Kolisi, and were shaken by the pace set by the New Zealanders.

Published on: 23/08/2026 - 00:47

New Zealand players celebrated their win after the international rugby match against South Africa in Johannesburg on Saturday, August 22, 2026. AP Photo/Themba Hadebe

Correspondent Claire Bargelès reported from Johannesburg that in the stands, the All Blacks were supported by groups of South Africans who continue to prefer them over the Springboks, stemming from the apartheid era when the New Zealand team represented diversity on the global rugby stage. Some fans traveled great distances, including Nick, who journeyed from Kenya. The New Zealand supporter enjoyed the show, stating, "We were told it would be a place of suffering for us. But for this first test, we proved that this New Zealand team is no longer the same one they were used to beating. We were really good today; I am super happy."

Captain Ardie Savea also expressed satisfaction with his teammates, noting, "We said we needed to keep our composure in key moments, and the guys showed they were really present. As a leader, all we can ask is that everyone does their job, and that was done, allowing us to score points. That makes me very proud."

On the other side, the Springboks, who hold more world titles than the All Blacks, collapsed in the second half. However, South African center Jesse Kriel wanted to focus on the upcoming matches: "We know we weren't as precise as we would have liked tonight, but New Zealand also played extremely well. We still have three chances and look forward to these next three tests."

The teams will have three more preparation matches against each other on August 29 and September 5 and 12. Although the evening's defeat was tough to bear, supporters like Daksha remained hopeful for the future: "It's disappointing, but I believe in our guys, so I continue to have confidence in them!" The next match will take place on Saturday in Cape Town for the rematch.